BAM will build a new campus in Peebles, replacing the High School which was seriously damaged in a fire in late 2019, while Morrison Construction has been appointed to deliver the Galashiels Community Campus.

Scottish Borders Council has also confirmed the continuation of its partnership with development partner Hub South East who will oversee both projects.

Both contractors will now begin to familiarise themselves with the sites, stakeholders and designs that have been developed to date with planning applications due to be submitted next year.

A period of further design development for the projects will then follow with construction works anticipated to start at both sites in late 2022.

Councillor Carol Hamilton, Executive Member for Children and Young People, said: “The appointments of BAM Construction and Morrison Construction as tier 1 contractors and the announcement of our continued partnership with Hub South East marks an important step in the progression of these two major projects.

“We believe their respective track records in successfully delivering projects of this scale can help the Council achieve its ambition of providing world-class education facilities for young learners across the Borders.”

Martin Cooper, Construction Director for BAM, said: “Not only will we deliver very sustainable, highly modern and extensive facilities for students and staff, but BAM will use our time here to work with the community and local firms to make sure we give something back beyond creating a great building.

“It’s a great opportunity for us all and we will be reaching out to our partners so that we can all make the most of it.”

Eddie Robertson, Managing Director of Morrison Construction Building Central, said: “We have a strong track record in delivering major new education campuses in partnership with Hub South East, and we very much look forward to working again with Scottish Borders Council to provide high-quality facilities for local students and the wider community.”